AGP Executive Report

Road & Rail Travel Update: Interstate 65 in Louisville is reopening ahead of schedule. Starting 12 a.m. July 29, two lanes in each direction will be back open after a June 1 closure for bridge replacements, with construction continuing through March 2027. Family-Friendly Attractions: Norman’s City Council approved a Dr Pepper “Fansville” logo for the Lindsey Street water tower, turning it into a new stop for visitors. Outdoor & Community Resilience: Floyd County marked the 2022 flood anniversary with a new resilience plan and a $100,000 grant to build a Community Resilience Hub for disasters. Local Food & Safety: Kentucky drivers are getting reminded to check vehicle height to avoid low-bridge strikes, and a new state law expands when drivers must stop for school buses. Kentucky Culture & History: Colonel Sanders’ Shelbyville home and memorabilia are headed to auction, including personal items and KFC-era artifacts. Community Needs: Owensboro leaders discussed food insecurity after USDA data ranked Kentucky No. 2 in the nation.

Kentucky Tourism & Events: Paintsville Tourism Commission approved a $10,000 sponsorship for the Paintsville Invitational Tournament (PIT), a July 24-26 golf event at Paintsville Golf Course that’s been running since 1942 and draws top players. Horse Racing & Tourism: First Classs, the record-setting Arabian racehorse, will retire to the Kentucky Horse Park’s Hall of Champions—giving visitors a new major attraction tied to a global racing career. Local Travel & Community Impact: Bowling Green residents and disability advocates protested proposed Medicaid reimbursement cuts tied to House Bill 500, warning the change could reduce services for families across South Central Kentucky. Road & Safety Notes: Kentucky’s Transportation Cabinet released a new traffic impact report for local districts, and there are also ongoing Lexington I-75 lane closures and traffic pattern switches beginning Monday. Outbreak Watch for Travelers: A multistate Cyclospora outbreak tied to Taco Bell and Taylor Farms continues to expand, with more lawsuits filed as cases climb. Back-to-School Mental Health: Kentucky experts urge families to plan for school routine changes to ease stress and support kids’ mental health heading into the new semester.

Road & Travel Updates: Lane closures and traffic pattern switches start Monday night on I-75 in Lexington as crews work to restore the David Fork bridge over Elkhorn Creek, with changes on both northbound and southbound sides through late August. Wildlife & Food Tourism: Want a Kentucky bison moment? Woodland Farm in Goshen (Oldham County) raises bison, and Louisville’s Proof on Main serves a bison burger made from the farm. Back-to-School Costs: A new report says back-to-school supplies are up 11%, adding pressure as many families juggle rising prices and credit card debt. Safety Law: Kentucky’s new school-bus and church-bus rules expand when drivers must stop on four-lane roads and allow districts to use cameras to catch illegal passing. Eastern Kentucky Recovery: Gov. Andy Beshear marked four years since the Eastern Kentucky floods with new affordable housing progress, including an added $2.5 million investment for about 25 homes. Local Events & Community Support: Hope Lodge in central Kentucky continues offering free housing and emotional support for cancer patients traveling for treatment. Sports Schedule Buzz (UK/SEC): The SEC set 2026-27 men’s basketball dates, including Kentucky’s home matchup with Arkansas at Rupp Arena on Feb. 20 and a late-season trip to Florida on March 6. Historic Tourism: Hopkinsville highlights preserved downtown landmarks, including the L&N Train Depot and Grace Episcopal Church, as part of its ongoing preservation push.

Northern Kentucky Tourism & Hospitality: The NKY Chamber is hosting Eggs ‘N Issues on Aug. 18 in Erlanger, with a panel on how arts, entertainment, tourism, and hospitality help people “play, stay, and grow.” SEC Basketball Schedule: Kentucky’s 2026-27 men’s SEC slate is out, starting conference play at Oklahoma (Jan. 2) and ending at Florida (March 6), with big Rupp Arena dates vs. Tennessee (Jan. 23), Alabama (Feb. 6), Arkansas (Feb. 20) and Auburn (Feb. 27). Outdoor Escapes: Eastern Kentucky travel spotlight highlights Berea and nearby history, plus a waterfall-hike guide that includes Cumberland Falls’ Eagle Falls Trail. Local Attractions & Events: Beaver Dam Amphitheater is gearing up for its biggest season yet, adding upgrades and a new fall festival. Kentucky Business & Jobs: WILDE, the high-protein snack maker, opened a new Winchester plant to triple production and hire nearly 200 workers. Road Safety: Three people died in two separate Leslie County crashes on Hal Rogers Parkway.

Water Utility Deal: The Kentucky Public Service Commission approved the sale of Black Mountain Utility District (BMUD) to Kentucky American Water, with KAW pledging $20.9 million for infrastructure over five years and up to $1.5 million for BMUD liabilities. Road Safety: A Boone County man died after a motorcycle crash on Dixie Highway; investigators suspect speed and alcohol, and he was not wearing a helmet. Severe Weather: Casey County confirmed an EF-1 tornado (about a mile-long path) after strong storms damaged trees and a barn. Tour Planning Help: Indiana stopped free paper highway maps in 2021, but Kentucky still offers up to 10 free maps for travelers. Local Travel & Tourism Storytelling: Gov. Andy Beshear says Team Kentucky’s disaster documentary “RISING” is now streaming on Prime Video, with proceeds supporting the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund. Tourism Safety Reminder: The CDC/FDA expanded a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce to nine states, including Kentucky. Crash Updates: Kentucky State Police investigated two deadly, hours-apart crashes on the Hal Rogers Parkway in Leslie County, with toxicology testing pending.

Tourism & Local Life: Cave City is facing a legal fight over a new data center moratorium near Mammoth Cave, with a Kentucky land development company suing the city council and planning commission, arguing the ban was rushed and violated state law—an issue that could affect future development and tourism-area planning. Community & Family Travel: In Bowling Green, the long-running “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive wrapped up at Crossroads IGA, collecting backpacks and supplies for students across southern Kentucky, with donations still accepted year-round. Health & Food Safety for Travelers: The FDA and CDC widened a multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce, now listing cases across nine states including Kentucky, with hundreds hospitalized—another reminder to watch for recalls and food handling while on the road. Outdoor & Summer Plans: Bernheim Forest & Arboretum is hosting an Adult Ecology Camp, plus the Kentucky Railway Museum offers “Trivia on the Rails,” and Bardstown’s farmers market runs Saturday—good picks for visitors looking for low-key, local experiences. Gas Watch: Kentucky fuel prices remain volatile, with multiple counties reporting the lowest midgrade/diesel deals for the week ending July 18.

Food Safety & Travel Caution: The FDA and CDC expanded their cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, now listing cases in nine states including Kentucky, with 1,947 reported infections and 98+ hospitalizations; officials say the outbreak is linked to food exposure (not typical pool/splash-pad spread), so travelers should be extra mindful with produce and follow local guidance. Local Tourism & Community Resilience: The Eastern Kentucky flood documentary RISING is now streaming on Prime Video, after screenings across the region raised $48,000+ for relief, spotlighting rebuilding efforts and high-ground communities. Bourbon & Visitor Interest: Old Forester unveiled its new Triple Char Kentucky Straight Bourbon (115 proof), made entirely from whiskey distilled at its Main Street distillery in Louisville—another reason to plan a Whiskey Row stop. Outdoor Fun: Kentucky Lake and Paris Landing State Park are set for major youth bass tournaments, including the Bassmaster Junior Championship and the High School Championship (July 30–Aug. 1). Road-Trip Planning: A Lafayette Road project in Christian County will bring detours and a full closure at Lovers Lane starting Aug. 10 through late October (weather permitting), with a second phase expected in March 2027.

Tourism & Money: Frankfort and Franklin County logged $174.7 million in visitor spending, up 6% year over year, with downtown momentum tied to new businesses and boutique hotels. Road Trips & Planning: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews start a $6.8M I-75 Scott County rest area upgrade Monday, widening truck access and improving lighting (with limited truck parking). Local Roads: Lafayette Road in Christian County gets a major intersection overhaul at Lovers Lane—detours begin early August, with a full closure expected Aug. 10 through fall. Bourbon & Travel Culture: SOAR is pushing Eastern Kentucky distillers toward the Bourbon Trail, aiming to draw more tourism to the region. Family Fun & Outdoors: Bernheim’s Adult Ecology Camp and Kentucky Railway Museum “Trivia on the Rails” offer nature and train-themed weekend plans. Food Safety Watch: CDC/FDA expanded the cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce to more states, including Kentucky—officials stress produce safety as cases rise. Community Recovery: Turning Point Recovery’s first Recovery Resource Roadshow brings free HIV testing, Naloxone training, and recovery vendors to Paducah’s Noble Park. Back-to-School Help: Local providers say childhood immunizations are slipping, while communities host back-to-school events and vaccine reminders.

Food Safety & Travel Health: The CDC and FDA expanded the cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, now involving nine states including Kentucky (Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia). Investigators say 1,947 illnesses have been reported, with 98 hospitalizations and no deaths, and they’re urging people to watch for severe, ongoing diarrhea. Local Tourism & Economy: Frankfort/Franklin County visitor spending hit $174.7 million in 2025, up 6% year over year, with downtown growth and new hotels driving the rebound. Road-Trip Convenience: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews begin $6.8 million rest area upgrades on I-75 in Scott County Monday, including expanded truck parking and lighting, with lane reductions possible. Outdoor & Family Fun: A 14-year-old hiker was found safe after getting separated from a group in the Red River Gorge; search teams stressed staying with your party and carrying a flashlight. Appalachian Community: SOAR hosted a distiller-focused event at Brother’s Wright Distillery, pushing more Eastern Kentucky brands toward the Bourbon Trail. Eastern Kentucky Giving: The Stan’s Dream Foundation launched a youth basketball camp in the mountains, aiming to create opportunities through sports and service.

Arts Education: The tuition-free 2026 Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts wrapped up June 27 at Northern Kentucky University, with 275 student-artists from 60 counties across 10 disciplines—plus a trip to Cincinnati’s Aronoff Center for The Lion King. Road Trip Costs: AAA reports the national regular gas average jumped 15 cents to $4.09, with California leading at $5.59—another reminder to plan fuel stops. Outdoor Safety: A 14-year-old hiker was found safe after getting separated from his group in the Red River Gorge’s Indian Staircase area, with search crews using ground teams and KSP aviation. Family Fun & Travel: Old Forester’s new 117 Series “Triple Char” bourbon is a downtown Louisville distillery exclusive, drawing bourbon travelers to the Main Street visitor experience. Local Learning: Boone County Library in NKY received a $1,000 Rural Technology Fund grant for its first robotics kits and STEM workshops. School Bus Law: Kentucky’s new school bus stop-arm rule tightens when drivers must stop, including on roads from either direction.

Aviation & Jobs: IndiGo signed a massive MoU for 1,000+ LEAP-1A engines, with major knock-on work for GE Aerospace employees across multiple states including Kentucky. Road-Trip & Tech: Ford will embed Apple Maps in a new 2027 EV pickup built at its Louisville plant, aiming for EV-friendly routing to charging stops. Bourbon Tourism: A Glasgow woman is running the only female, veteran-owned bourbon tour company on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, turning bourbon travel into a personal, all-in experience. State Parks & Caves: Kentucky State Park highlights four very different cave adventures beyond Mammoth Cave. Travel Disruptions: A $6.8M I-75 rest area upgrade in Scott County starts Monday, with limited truck parking and phased lane reductions. Local Culture: A traveling exhibit on Black jockeys is on loan in Kentucky, spotlighting racing’s untold pioneers. Weather & Safety: Northern Kentucky communities are still cleaning up after a devastating tornado. Food Safety: A cyclosporiasis outbreak update says Colorado isn’t included (yet), but urges careful produce handling.

Louisville Community Spotlight: The Cabbage Patch Settlement House is marking 115 years of free support for children and families, with founder Louise Marshall’s trust still keeping programs like education help and family assistance accessible. Local Tourism & Economy: Marshall County fiscal court heard tourism updates showing $88 million in 2025 tourist impact, plus parks and playground discussions tied to visitor spending. Paducah Retail & Travel Draw: Bass Pro Shops’ Paducah outpost construction is progressing, now expected to open in spring 2027—good news for shoppers and regional visitors. Family Health & Back-to-School: Kentucky experts are urging back-to-school vaccines as kindergarten immunization rates show mixed trends, with providers citing confusion and declining uptake. Outdoor Events: Jets Over Kentucky returns as a long-running RC aircraft “pilgrimage,” with organizers noting strong local tourism support. Weather Watch: A tornado touched down in Owen County, damaging a barn and property while one couple escaped injury. Health Access: CVS in Marion will close Saturdays for a couple months due to staffing challenges, with patients directed to other nearby locations.

Road & Safety Updates: KYTC says overnight alternating lane closures on I-64 West in Franklin County start Sunday, with nightly work from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. through Aug. 7 between mile markers 53 and 58 for asphalt paving, plus bridge repairs. Local Travel Disruptions: KY-1081 in Magoffin County will close for 90 days starting July 29 for a box culvert replacement; detours are KY-40 and KY-1437. Community & Weather: A tornado touched down in Owen County Tuesday, destroying a barn and damaging property; a couple took shelter in their pantry as debris blocked their exit. Tourism & Bourbon: Visit Frankfort is teaming up with Franklin, Woodford and Lawrenceburg for the “Heart of Bourbon” campaign, aiming to roll out first visuals this fall ahead of Keeneland. Outdoor & Walkability: Hodgenville’s Lincoln Farm Road project will use a “road diet” to add a center turning lane and dedicated bike/ped path, targeting safety after 50 collisions in five years. Arts Destination: SKyPAC in Bowling Green reports record FY2026 performance, with major gains in ticket sales and economic impact across the Barren River region. Health Alert for Travelers: Kentucky is among states watching a national cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce; officials urge caution with fresh produce and medical care for prolonged watery diarrhea.

Food Safety & Travel Health: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases hit a record high in 2026, with 4,173 confirmed infections across 41 states since May 1 and 308 hospitalizations, tied in part to shredded iceberg lettuce linked to Taylor Farms; health officials urge travelers to avoid recalled lettuce and wash produce well. Severe Weather: Tornadoes and storms battered the East, with Kentucky reporting a tornado hitting an animal shelter (no injuries) and widespread power outages and flight cancellations nationwide. Kentucky Politics: Rocky Adkins launched his 2027 governor bid in Lexington, pitching himself as a “fighter” focused on education, affordable healthcare, and cost-of-living pressures. Local Community & Tourism: Kentucky Blood Center is hosting a blood drive in Williamsburg today (10 a.m.-noon). Sports & Rivalries: Mark Pope’s Kentucky men’s basketball rivalry matchups for 2026-27 look more favorable on paper, setting up key games for Big Blue fans. Road & Safety: A three-car crash on Perryville Road sent two people to the hospital with injuries.

School Bus Safety Update: A new Kentucky law (KRS 189.370) expands when drivers must stop for school and church buses with red lights and the stop arm out, including more situations on multi-lane roads. Bridge & Road Closures: KYTC says the U.S. 60 (Capital Avenue) bridge in Frankfort closes 7 p.m. Fri., July 24 to 5 a.m. Mon., July 27, with a signed detour; also expect more weekend closures as work continues. Flooding on I-65: Kentucky State Police report left lanes flooded at the 61-mile marker in Hart County, with multiple collisions—use the right lanes and drive carefully. Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down in Owen County, damaging barns and a home; shelters opened across multiple counties as storms moved through. Family Travel Picks: Chimney Corners Resort in Frankfort is promoting summer stays with multiple unit types, tennis, a beach, and weekly barbecues. Local Festival Fun: The Mary Draper Ingles Festival runs July 24-26 in Radford, with history, music, tours, and kids’ activities. Backroads Shopping: The 127 Yard Sale returns Aug. 6-9, stretching across six states and linking major Kentucky stops like Harrodsburg. Food Safety Note: The cyclospora outbreak remains in the spotlight as FDA clarifies some Taylor Farms test results were false positives, while the voluntary lettuce recall continues.

Kentucky State Fair Board Updates: Gov. Andy Beshear appointed three new members—Rocky Adkins, Jimmy England, and Brent Tolle—adding fresh leadership to the 18-member Kentucky State Fair Board, with a focus on agriculture and tourism events. Tourism Spotlight (Western KY): TVA offered rare “inside the dam” tours at Kentucky Dam as part of America’s 250th anniversary, giving lottery-selected residents a close-up look at how the hydro facility regulates water levels, moves barges, and generates power. Outdoor & Family Fun: The Hopkins County Sportsmen and Sportswomen Club unveiled an Outdoor Recreational Educational Trailer to teach wildlife conservation and hunter education, with its first local stop planned for the Hopkins County Fair Aug. 1–3. Food Safety Watch: The FDA says a lab test tied to the Cyclospora outbreak returned a false positive, but the Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce recall remains in effect as cases climb nationwide. Local Travel/Events: Eastern Kentucky travel inspiration is in the spotlight, with a roundup pointing readers to regional stops and experiences.